Thursday, November 15, 2012

Classical Ballet Bun Tutorial- Also great for the Perfect Pony Tail


Tutorial: Ballet Stage Make Up


MAKING UP IS FUN

Here is a comprehensive look at MAKE UP. Video to follow PLEASE CHECK OUT THE TUTORIAL FOR SOME FABULOUS TRICKS & TIPS FOR GETTING YOUR PERFECT STAGE FACE ON. LIGHTS! CAMERA! ACTION! It's that time of year again when we dive into our treasure trove of make up and get our little darlings looking gorgeous for the stage! Why do we need to put make up on the kids? Well, though your little dancer may look like a mini drag queen off stage, I can assure you that on stage, they will just look like their sweet little self (with just a touch more pizzazz.) The lighting used can wipe them out and make it very hard for them to dazzle us with their brightest smiles so they need a little help to highlight their features PLUS IT'S FUN! Little girls love make up!Mums, I feel your pain....it's hard to get animated, excited little faces still long enough to weave your magic wand. And then there is the liquid eye liner....oh and the tears, you forget how easily and often little faces can crumple into tears until you spy your pain stakingly applied handi work sliding down their faces. BUT know this, it does get easier and quicker. A little bit of practise before the big day and you are good to go. Remember, children, like animals smell fear! Go into the application with confidence and assertiveness. You are a make up magician. Here is my guide to lighting up our Junior's faces. * Use a foundation in their shade ( you can go one shade darker than skin tone for stage but make sure you cover neck etc as well). I suggest using a sponge to apply. It's much quicker and much better for coverage. Some skin tones may not require much foundation. * DO use powder to blot out shininess and it will help rest of make up to go on with ease and stay on. * Use a white highlighter (shadow or powder form- some have a real sheen or a glitter) and lightly place under eye area and along cheekbone. Get your little one to suck in cheeks and generously apply hot pink blusher (for very rosy cheeks.) * Closing eyes, cover entire eye area in white or ivory eyeshadow. Using a brown eye shadow cover entire eye lid. Accentuate corner of eye with a darker brown shade. Trace top lid with crayon eye liner in black and extend along eye in a cat's eye. (I use a crayon liner rather than pencil as it is easier on little faces). Use crayon liner under eye as well but below natural line so as to enlarge eyes. * Use a white eye liner in corner of eyes on both sides. * If using false eye lashes apply now. Use glue on both lashes and paint along upper lid. Press firmly and hold until fully dry. If not using eye lashes ( on little ones etc) just use mascara on top and lower lashes. Apply LOTS especially if they are fair. * You can then if you like go over crayon with liquid eye liner ( I use the pen ones) as again they are much easier. * On fair children , it is important to draw in eye brows in slightly darker shade than hair. Just lightly colour in. * Outline lips in lip liner- I colour in lips with it as well and then apply lip stick! HOT PINK- as bright as you can find!! Here are some pics of some of our kids in full make up! There are always lots of mums who have been there, done that all before and remember their first days of making up their children and who are only too happy to help! Please ask us if we can help you! Concerts should be fun and not stressful!

HAIR & MAKE UP DETAILS

HAIR & MAKE-UP REQUIREMENTS Please note that our website has a very comprehensive guide to Make Up & Hair. Go to www.steppingoutdance.com.au and hit link DUBBO NEWS to get full post & how to instructions on make up for stage. It will be in November Archive. MAKE UP – Foundation, Powder, Blusher, white/cream eye shadow as base for eye, eye socket shaded with brown eye shadow, black liquid eye liner, black pencil eye liner under eyes, white pencil as highlighter, black mascara, false eye lashes (optional but highly recommended) COMPULSORY FOR STUDENTS 12 yrs & above, hot pink lipstick (under 12s) burgundy/crimson ( 14 yrs & Open.)TINY TOTS- Parents use your discretion. Lipstick, blusher, shadow and mascara will be sufficient but ensure it is bright as the lights are very strong and can wash out those gorgeous little faces and we really want to see those smiles. Students will also need to be aware that white, nude or plain underwear must be worn under costuming. BOYS- hair in own funky style. Make up at own discretion and depending on child’s fairness. Blusher or bronzer usually sufficient HAIR & OTHER REQUIREMENTS FOR EACH GROUP AS FOLLOWS; Please note all hair styles will need to be slicked back from face. The best technique is to use a fine tooth comb on damp hair and gel and hair spray to smooth hair and fringes off face. Please ensure you use hair bands in matching hair shade or clear elastic bands. Students with hair accessories please ensure that these are pinned firmly. Hats, hair ties, hair pieces and wigs need to be pinned thoroughly. HAIR FOR EACH GROUP IS AS FOLLOWS: Future Stars Saturday Two High Pig tails and curled. Pins will be needed for ears. Jazz or Ballet Shoes. Future Stars Monday Very high ponytail and curled. Ballet shoes or jazz shoes. 6 years Jazz- Two high pig tails and curled. Camel Jazz Shoes 8 years Jazz- Very high ponytail and curled Camel Jazz Shoes 10 years Jazz-Very high ponytail and curled. Matte tan tights. Jazz Shoes 12 years Jazz-Very high ponytail and teased. Matte tan tights. Jazz Shoes. 14 years Jazz-Very high ponytail. Matte tan tights. Camel Jazz Shoes Senior Jazz- side braid to right will form basis of all hair styles for Senior Students. Very high ponytail. Matte tan tights. Camel Jazz Shoes 8 yrs, 10 yrs, 12 yrs Jazz Performance- Very high ponytail and curled. Matte tan tights. Camel Jazz Shoes 14 yrs, Senior Jazz Performance-slicked into low ponytail on right. Matte tan tights. Camel jazz Shoes Primary Ballet, Level 3 Ballet, Level 5 Ballet- Classical Bun, please use hair net in matching hair shade and plenty of pins. Pin bun as you go to get it flat and neat. Ballet stockings. Ballet shoes with elastic or ribbon. Senior Ballet-low side bun to right. ( use net) Ballet stockings. Appropriate shoes. Junior Contemporary, Intermediate Contemporary- High ponytail plaited and looped under.Bare feet Senior Contemporary-Hair out with side braid Bree. Rest of class side pony. Junior Hip Hop- Hair in slicked high ponytail and curled. For shoes please go to Big W or Target or Best & Less or the like and purchase white canvas lace up shoes. They are available at very reasonable prices. Senior Hip Hop & Tap- Hair and shoes to be decided in class under direction of Miss Emma Junior Tap- Hair in two high pig tails and curled. Matte tan tights. Tap shoes Intermediate Tap- Hair in high ponytail. Matte tan tights. Tap Shoes

DRESS REHEARSAL & CONCERT DAY ORGANISATION

DRESS REHEARSAL & CONCERT DAY ORGANISATION DRESS REHEARSALS- FRIDAY, 30th November • Entry to Dress Rehearsals is via Carrington Ave entrance. Students are to be taken to back glass door ( stage door.) Please ensure that you are dressed and ready to commence rehearsals at your nominated time. This will be a full dress rehearsal in running order. • Students are to have their names marked off on their class roll as a sign in for rehearsal. Performers and Parents are NOT permitted in the foyer area of the Theatre. REHEARSALS ARE CLOSED. ( Parents, friends etc are NOT permitted backstage, stage area or within the theatre auditorium.) Parents may wait in dressing room areas to assist with costume changes. Parents of young performers are welcome to stay in the Dressing Rooms Area. Students are fully supervised in theatre. • Students are to wait to be called for each rehearsal. They will be dismissed from stage or auditorium at close of their rehearsal. • Students with changes for rehearsals are asked to be prompt. This is a good rehearsal for the actual day as there are a few quick changes needed. • No food or drink in the theatre auditorium during rehearsals. Young students should not be eating and drinking while in costume. Please ensure that all students have a water bottle that is labelled with their name. • Dressing Rooms are to be left tidy. • Students must sign out before leaving the premises. CONCERT DAY 11am Show & 5pm show • An Order of Appearance is on the reverse side. Please be aware that parents are required to change students if they are involved in more than one routine or make own arrangements to have another parent dress and change your child. • Students appearing in the first half are asked to be at the venue by 10.15am (11am show) & 4.15pm (5pm show)fully dressed, with hair & make up done for first routine. Please enter through back stage entrance ( Carrington Ave), locate your name ( in class rolls- as per order of appearance) and mark your name off. • Students appearing in the second half only are asked to be at the venue by 11.45am (11am show ) & 6.00pm (5pm show)and follow same instructions as set out above. If students are watching the concert they need to report backstage for 2nd half ( if that is when their item is) at the times given. • Parents leaving auditorium to dress performers throughout performance will be granted Back of House access through a door located near Door 1. ( foyer area past toilets) We ask that you exit the auditorium from Door 2 and 3 only to gain access to this door to back stage. Exiting from these doors will ensure minimum disruption to performers and patrons. Please acquaint yourself with this door before the performance commences. Likewise, students will need to follow same procedure if leaving auditorium to go backstage for a performance or change of costume. • No one is allowed to sit in the aisles or on the steps under any circumstances (OH & S). • Mobile phones must be turned off during the performances. • Students who have tickets to watch are permitted to leave backstage area after they have performed. All students must sign out on class roll and Students under 12 years of age must be collected from backstage area /dressing rooms by a parent or guardian. • ALL students will be reappearing in the Finale’ but it is at discretion of parents for young students if they stay for 11am show or if they return home for a rest. Students will be notified via a voice over when it is time to return backstage for FINALE’. The 2012 Presentation will follow the 5pm Performance. • Refreshments will be served in the bar area. • Classes for 2012 will cease on Sunday, 2nd December. Future Stars Saturday class will cease on Saturday, Dec 8th ( Due to Term 3 being shortened while Miss Rikki was overseas.) We thank you for the tremendous support and enthusiasm shown by all students and their families throughout 2012 and we look forward to celebrating this in our production, “DESTINATION DANCE- AROUND THE WORLD.” 2013 Enrolment Information will be sent out in January and our 2013 Enrolment Day will be held on Friday, January 25th 4-7pm at our studio Unit 7/74 Mountbatten Drive. Private Tuition for Eisteddfods will commence in early January 2012- Please register your interest with Miss Rikki on 041 336 1724. • GOOD LUCK EVERYONE! WE CAN’T WAIT TO SEE YOU SHINE! 2012 PROGRAM 1. Nine to Five/Holiday/Destination Unknown-2012 PERFORMANCE TEAMS 2. Mickey Mouse Club/It’s A Small World- SATURDAY FUTURE STARS JAZZ/BALLET 3. The Bronx SENIOR HIP HOP 4. Empire State of Mind INTERMEDIATE CONTEMPORARY 5. Mexico 6 YRS JAZZ 6 Vegas SENIOR JAZZ 7. Varsity Team JUNIOR HIP HOP 8. Skaters in the Snow LEVEL 3 BALLET 9. Penguins INTERMEDIATE TAP 10. Little Swans PRIMARY BALLET 11. Africa 12 YRS JAZZ 12. Funky Monkey 10 YRS PERFORMANCE 13. Garden of Eden/One Beautiful Evening SENIOR MODERN PERFORMANCE 14. Genie 8 YRS JAZZ PERFORMANCE 15. Everybody Dance Now 14 YRS JAZZ PERFORMANCE 16. Blame it on the Boogie JUNIOR USA TEAM 17. Can you Feel It? SENIOR USA TEAM INTERVAL 18. Turbulence SENIOR HIP HOP 19. Around the World 8 YRS JAZZ 20. From Paris to Berlin 14 YRS JAZZ 21. Can Can MONDAY FUTURE STARS 22. Supermodel 12 YRS JAZZ PERFORMANCE 23. La Vie En Rose SENIOR BALLET 24. China LEVEL 5 BALLET 25. Run The World SENIOR JAZZ PERFORMANCE 26. Heal The World JUNIOR CONTEMPORARY 27. Ireland JUNIOR TAP 28. She Moved Through The Fair PARIS BURNS 29. Spanish Bullfighters SENIOR TAP 30. Let’s Get Loud 10 YRS JAZZ 31. Spanish SENIOR POINTE 32. Leaving On A Jet Plane BREE GRANT/ SENIOR MODERN 33. FINALE’ Junior Modern Performance + Entire Cast PRESENTATION OF AWARDS WILL BE AT CLOSE OF 5 PM SHOW

DRESS REHEARSAL TIMES & INFO

DRESS REHEARSALS- DUBBO THEATRE & CONVENTION CENTRE Dress Rehearsals will be held at Dubbo Theatre & Convention Centre on Friday, 30th November. A timetable of rehearsal times is attached. Please note all rehearsals in the lead up to Concert are CLOSED to observers and this is a condition stipulated by Theatre Management. Entry for performers for both Dress Rehearsal and Concert is strictly via Back stage area. (Carrington Ave entry.) Please enter by back glass doors and initial your child’s attendance at a sign in and sign out book. Students must be collected from this area and you will need to sign them out. Dressing Rooms will be allocated this year and students with numerous changes will be given priority. Parents are best to drop children off if they do not warrant a change. Students will be fully supervised. Parents of young performers (6 yrs & Under) are permitted to wait in back area of Theatre but will not be allowed in backstage area. A separate note explaining Concert Day Organisation will be given to students at Dress Rehearsals. Our Dress Rehearsals are going to be complete stage, audio and technical rehearsals. We will be rehearsing in order of show. Students will be seated in audience fully dressed and called onto stage when needed. Only those students who have costume changes will be permitted to leave audience area to go to parents or dressing rooms for their changes. HAIR, MAKE UP & COSTUMING IS REQUIRED for lighting and staging purposes. PHOTOGRAPHY WILL BE HELD ON CONCERT DAY so as not to interrupt rehearsals. Thank you for your co-operation. We really appreciate your efforts in ensuring your children, our star performers look their absolute best for the rehearsals and show. FRIDAY, 30th November 1st half Performers at venue dressed ready to go by 4pm. Backstage opened from 3.30pm Future Star Performers in first half will be dismissed by 5pm. All other performers in first half are to be at rehearsal until 6pm. ( students can be collected at 6pm from Carrington Ave backstage entrance. They will need to be signed out.) 1st Half Performers- 4pm ALL PERFORMANCE STUDENTS, FUTURE STARS SATURDAY, SENIOR HIP HOP-BRONX, INTERMEDIATE CONTEMPORARY, 6 YEARS JAZZ, SENIOR JAZZ,JUNIOR HIP HOP< LEVEL 3 BALLET,INTER TAP, PRIMARY/LEVEL 1 BALLET, 12 YEARS JAZZ , 10 YEARS JAZZ PERFORMANCE “FUNKY MONKEY”,8 YEARS GENIE PERFORMANCE, GARDEN OF EDEN SENIOR CONTEMPORARY, , 14 YEARS JAZZ PERFORMANCE “EVERYBODY DANCE NOW”-, USA TEAMs. 2nd Half Performers will need to be at venue dressed and ready to go by 6pm. Future Star Monday class will be dismissed by 7pm. ALL other performers in 2nd half will be required until 8pm. ( students can be collected at 8pm from Carrington Ave backstage entrance. They will need to be signed out. 2nd Half Performers- 6pm SENIOR HIP HOP-Turbulence,8 YRS JAZZ MONDAY CLASS, 14 YRS JAZZ MONDAY CLASS, FUTURE STARS MONDAY CLASS, 12 YRS PERFORMANCE “SUPERMODELS”,SENIOR BALLET, LEVEL 5 BALLET, SENIOR JAZZ “RUN THE WORLD”,JUNIOR MODERN TUESDAY CLASS, JUNIOR TAP, SENIOR TAP, 10 YEARS JAZZ MONDAY CLASS, SENIOR POINTE, SENIOR MODERN

Performance Students- Wednesday Classes

PERFORMANCE STUDENTS- COSTUME MEMO Performance Students will be involved in the following routines ( costuming as per Eisteddfod.) • 8 years Genies • 10 years Funky Monkey • 12 years Supermodels • 14 years Everybody Dance Now • Senior Jazz Run the World and Garden of Eden In conjunction with the above routines, ALL Performance students will be involved in our OPENING ROUTINE. You are asked to co-ordinate a bright, colourful costume yourselves that fits in with the following scenarios. • 8 years/ 10 years – Holiday, tropical look. We suggest any variety of the following grass skirts, two pieces, floaties, snorkel gear, sunglasses, loud Hawaiian shirts, denim cut offs, bright kaftans, hats, etc. • 12yrs/ 14 years- Plane passengers from all walks of life. Business people, different occupations, school kids etc. Though this is civilian wear we need for stage for it to be very bright and well accessorised. Think wigs, accessories and lots of colour. • Seniors- corporate wear, occupation clothes. Bathrobes, pjs etc worn over top. Again, this needs to be a really Over the Top look to enhance the musical theatre feel. • JUNIOR MODERN STUDENTS- Finale “I STILL CALL AUSTRALIA HOME”. Students will need to wear their Pirate Costume from the Contemporary this year. • PLEASE BRING COSTUMES INTO CLASS BEFORE DRESS REHEARSAL FOR OPENING SO WE CAN APPROVE THEM. Thanks

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

CONCERT NEWS- Lights, Camera & All That Jazz

Stage Rehearsals were incredible. Thank you to everyone for assisting in making our first formal rehearsal such a phenomenal success. DRESS REHEARSAL Timetable is out this week. Hair & Make Up Notes are going home next week. All information will then be posted here. Your Bible to all things DESTINATION DANCE. Here is a comprehensive look at MAKE UP. Video to follow PLEASE CHECK OUT THE TUTORIAL FOR SOME FABULOUS TRICKS & TIPS FOR GETTING YOUR PERFECT STAGE FACE ON. LIGHTS! CAMERA! ACTION! It's that time of year again when we dive into our treasure trove of make up and get our little darlings looking gorgeous for the stage! Why do we need to put make up on the kids? Well, though your little dancer may look like a mini drag queen off stage, I can assure you that on stage, they will just look like their sweet little self (with just a touch more pizzazz.) The lighting used can wipe them out and make it very hard for them to dazzle us with their brightest smiles so they need a little help to highlight their features PLUS IT'S FUN! Little girls love make up!Mums, I feel your pain....it's hard to get animated, excited little faces still long enough to weave your magic wand. And then there is the liquid eye liner....oh and the tears, you forget how easily and often little faces can crumple into tears until you spy your pain stakingly applied handi work sliding down their faces. BUT know this, it does get easier and quicker. A little bit of practise before the big day and you are good to go. Remember, children, like animals smell fear! Go into the application with confidence and assertiveness. You are a make up magician. Here is my guide to lighting up our Junior's faces. * Use a foundation in their shade ( you can go one shade darker than skin tone for stage but make sure you cover neck etc as well). I suggest using a sponge to apply. It's much quicker and much better for coverage. Some skin tones may not require much foundation. * DO use powder to blot out shininess and it will help rest of make up to go on with ease and stay on. * Use a white highlighter (shadow or powder form- some have a real sheen or a glitter) and lightly place under eye area and along cheekbone. Get your little one to suck in cheeks and generously apply hot pink blusher (for very rosy cheeks.) * Closing eyes, cover entire eye area in white or ivory eyeshadow. Using a brown eye shadow cover entire eye lid. Accentuate corner of eye with a darker brown shade. Trace top lid with crayon eye liner in black and extend along eye in a cat's eye. (I use a crayon liner rather than pencil as it is easier on little faces). Use crayon liner under eye as well but below natural line so as to enlarge eyes. * Use a white eye liner in corner of eyes on both sides. * If using false eye lashes apply now. Use glue on both lashes and paint along upper lid. Press firmly and hold until fully dry. If not using eye lashes ( on little ones etc) just use mascara on top and lower lashes. Apply LOTS especially if they are fair. * You can then if you like go over crayon with liquid eye liner ( I use the pen ones) as again they are much easier. * On fair children , it is important to draw in eye brows in slightly darker shade than hair. Just lightly colour in. * Outline lips in lip liner- I colour in lips with it as well and then apply lip stick! HOT PINK- as bright as you can find!! Here are some pics of Immy & Onny in full make up! There are always lots of mums who have been there, done that all before and remember their first days of making up their children and who are only too happy to help! Please ask us if we can help you! Concerts should be fun and not stressful!

Monday, October 29, 2012

COPY OF OCTOBER NEWSLETTER

\ CONCERT UPDATE The Countdown to Concert is on. Over the coming weeks, we will be keeping you informed of important details in the lead up to Concert. All of our information will also be posted to our websitewww.steppingoutdance.com.au under DUBBO NEWS or on our Facebook page. ( Hit Like if you haven’t already) We aim to make the lead up to Concert an enjoyable and stress free one. Our thanks to everyone who has supported us in this process by ensuring your child has been measured for their dazzling costumes. We really appreciate your co-operation and look forward to sharing in this exciting event with you. A Hair & Make Up Guide will be sent home in November in readiness for Dress Rehearsals and the Big Day. Photos of how to do hair and make up will also be posted on our website to assist any new parents. A REMINDER THAT OUR CONCERT “DESTINATION DANCE- AROUND THE WORLD” will be staged on Sunday, 2nd December in two fabulous performances. ( apologies last concert note incorrectly printed Saturday 1st Dec but earlier notes had supplied correct date) Our matinee performance will commence at 11am and our evening performance at 5pm. Students will be required to dance in both performances. Our 2012 Presentation will be held at the conclusion of our 5pm show. A STAGE REHEARSAL will be held on Saturday, 10th November at the Dubbo Regional Theatre. A timetable will be supplied soon. Costume Collection will be held during class times on Monday, 26th & Tuesday, 27th November. Saturday morning Future Stars will receive theirs on Saturday, 24th November. Balances will be payable at time of collection. This year, our DRESS REHEARSAL will be held on Friday, 30th November at the Dubbo Regional Theatre and will be a full rehearsal ( hair & make up) and will run as per performance order. This will also be a full technical performance with lighting, audio etc. Times will be supplied closer to the date. TICKETS WILL GO ON SALE FROM 9.30am Thursday, 1st November and will be available online from www.drtcc.com.au or from the Theatre Box Office ( in person or phone 0268 014378.) Tickets are charged at $26 for ADULT and $22 for Concession. Concession rate will be available for group bookings ( 8 or more tickets.) Tickets for the 5pm show sold very quickly last year so families with a show preference are advised to get in early to avoid disappointment. We really can’t wait to see the culmination of our 2012 dancing year on the big stage and know these beautiful young people are going to shine.

STAGECRAFT REHEARSALS- SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 10

These rehearsals will be held on Saturday, 10th November at Dubbo Regional Theatre, Darling St. Please enter through backstage entrance at Carrington Ave and mark your child’s name off on roll. This is a closed rehearsal and only performers will be permitted entry into stage doors and area. Stagecraft rehearsals prepare students for entry, exits, stage dimensions and other important features of Performance. They are an important and exciting lead up to our Concert. Please pack a water bottle for your child and for those students with numerous rehearsals adequate refreshments. 9.30-10.15 Saturday Future Stars Ballet/ Jazz, Monday Future Stars Jazz 10.15-11.00 Primary/ Level 1 Ballet, Junior Tap 11.00-11.45 6 years Jazz, 8 years Jazz 11.45-12.45 10 years Jazz, 12 years Jazz, Junior Disney Team 12.45-1.45 Junior Contemporary, Level 5 Ballet, Level 3 Ballet 1.45-2.45 14 years Jazz, Junior Hip Hop, Intermediate Contemporary 2.45-3.45 ALL Performance classes, Intermediate Tap, 3.45-5.30 Senior Ballet, Hip Hop, Jazz, Contemporary, Tap, Senior Disney

Sunday, October 21, 2012

USA/MEXICO PART 2

After our day shopping, the Dads of Dance all boarded the bus for our next hotel, the Sheraton at Anaheim and the rest of us went to Discount Dance Warehouse and really shopped up a storm. This place had I visited it as a child would have been like visiting Santa's workshop and I have to say, excitement levels even as a grown up were pretty much way up there. You cannot begin to imagine how wonderful and CHEAP this place was. I went a little crazy shopping. I forget how many Happy tears were shed on this trip but can guarantee you my Breakfast with Disney Characters and seeing my kids at the Happiest Place on earth produced a torrent of tears. Disneyland really is a very magical and special place. The fact i got to return and not only share it with my children again but have my students perform there again is just unbelievably special.
The Breakfast was out of this world but to be honest I spent more time laughing and crying than partaking in the glorious food. We got up close and personal with Mickey, Minnie ( Evie's reaction to Minnie by her side I will never forget. Complete and utter awe and joy), Stitch, Pluto, Daisy Duck and a heap more. Onny, Molly Nelson, Payton reynolds and the Taylor girls even gotto teach Mickey to krump. Unbelievable.
We all spent the rest of the day enjoying Disneyland or California Adventure Park. WOW ON WOW! The new Carsland attraction is now open and was so exciting. The parades and in particular Disney Pixar Parade induced more tears. All in all we had five incredible days hopping back and forth in between the parks and enjoying two outstanding performances, a Disney workshop and lots of fun time AT Downtown Disney. We dined at Rainforest Cafe twice. LOVE THAT PLACE.
The kids were very impressive in not only their performances but in rehearsals. I was pulled aside and told, "we love your kids. They even dance full out in rehearsal. They have a great work ethic." The kids all got limited edition T shirts from Disneyland as proof of their Special Performance and successful audition. We bid a sad farewell to Disneyland and once again got on our bus to make the trip to Long Beach where we boarded our 8 day cruise aboard Carnival Splendor around the Mexican Riviera. As we stepped in to this luxurious, floating resort you could hear collective sighs of amazement. It was so beautiful and I really have no words to describe the food, buffet, fine dining, leisure activities, entertainment and good times that awaited us. WE WERE SO SPOILT!!
There were shows and entertainment every day and night and we were fortunate enough to be part of the entertainment performing in two incredible shows on the ship. We had tremendous response from our fellow cruisers who came to cheer on our dancers in the stunning auditorium. In one show alone, we had close to 1000 people cheering the kids on and were overwhelmed by the standing ovation we received. It was goose bump inducing.
Along with the cruise we got to experience beautiful Cabo San Lucas and Puerta Valleta. We all had a brilliant time. We were also treated upon disembarking with a beautiful day at Laguna Beach and shopping at Fashion Island before returning home. Some of our group travelled on to Las Vegas and I was absolutely thrilled to hear that one of our beautiful teachers, Miss Rachel became engaged during this time. My heartfelt thanks to all the talented, amazing students, their lovely, supportive families and the incredible, enthusiastic and energetic Stepping Out team who made this all possible. I curtsey to the dynamic Miss Leesa, Miss Emma, Miss Rachel, Miss Stef and anyone who assisted in any way with the success of this adventure. Big applause to Sonya O'Connor who ensured our kids shone like the stars they are and to the team at Global Dance and especially the very lovely and impressive skills of Rosemarie Church who made our dream a reality. We will definitely be looking you up. Everyone else, let's satrt saving. I think New York is calling us.

USA/ MEXICO TRIP

This is undoubtedly not just a highlight of 2012 but my entire teaching career. Following on from the fantastic 2008 USA Tour, we ventured back in September this year for what can only be described as INCREDIBLE, AMAZING and INSPIRING. I strongly suggest everyone starts saving for our next adventure because as wonderful as 2008 was 2012's trip certainly stepped up a notch. We won't be waiting so long for the next one. We took a 50 strong team of dancers aged between 7 and 24 years of age and their assorted families, friends and fans and travelled to Los Angeles, Disneyland and then boarded the most spectacular cruise around the Mexican Riviera. Senses were overloaded. An amazing time was enjoyed by all and for the dancers and all of the teachers we have certainly come home so incredibly inspired and proud of what we are creating out here in the Central West. The students and their families FLASH MOBBED Hollywood. I will upload footage when I can. Hollywood Blvd was alive with one, then two, then ten, then thirty, then 50 DANCERS and then joined by their parents, siblings, teachers for an uproarious and energetic dance routine. This was Miss Leesa's brain child and wow was it incredible to see the crowds gathering as Madame Tussard's was piping our music tracks on the Blvd and soon the whole streets were chanting "Aussie. Aussie. Aussie. Oi Oi Oi."
It was pretty fabulous to even see our Mayor up there busting a move. Students enjoyed dance classes and workshops at L.A's The Edge and Millenium dance studios. I was so thrilled that our students were able to benefit from the industry's finest dance professionals and for a day live the life of a professional dancer living in L.A. Students were even trained in Audition techniques with Disney's awesome Performing Arts staff and Chief Director. We performed at Universal Studio's in a very exciting show and were delighted at the crowd who came rushing to see who the celebrities were in the very sparkly costumes. The kids were treated like absolute stars at Universal and even got to walk the Red Carpet. Special thanks to our illustrious costume designer Sonya O'Connor
who had everyone blinded in the audience by the jaw dropping brilliance of our kids costumes. They shone in every way.
I have so many photos on my Ipad that I will share as soon as I can. After our performance at Universal Studios we all enjoyed a hot but very fun day exploring the theme park. Highlights were The Simpsons Ride ( so much fun) and the Jurassic Park Ride. My family were totally entranced by all the characters, rides and thrilling moments. After Universal we spent the rest of the evening at Universal Walk and had the most amazing dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe. My Archer fell face first into his food as he was so exhausted by his great day. We spent four amazing days in Hollywood and stayed at the Loews Hotel ( WOW- Google it). Our days were spent dancing or exploring places like Santa Monica, Venice Beach, Rodeo Drive, Hollywood and our nights partying or by the beautiful pool. I feel very blessed my family and students got to share this experience with so many friends. After our time in Hollywood, we travelled to Citadel Outlets and enjoyed shopping at L.A's biggest and best Outlet Mall. Many great bargains were discovered as was the most amazing Candy Apple Store ( ask my kids how much they enjoyed this!!)

CATCH UP

It's Concert Time and in the excitement and craziness of 2012 I have completely overlooked the Blog. Since the introduction of our Facebook page and the ease this means of Social Media delivers, I must apologise for abandoning the other great mecca of Stepping Out news, pics and info, our blog. I do however suggest if you have a Facebook account that you HIT LIKE immediately so that your newsfeed can keep you regularly updated on all things STEPPING OUT related. So, how do I update you on all that has happened in what has been one of our more successful and happy years of dancing in the Central West. mmmmmmmmm, I will try. So many wonderful things have happened to Stepping Out students, their familes and staff this year. So as I set adrift on memory bliss, grap yourself a cuppa and let's get reacquainted. SOON THIS BLOG WILL BE YOUR BIBLE TO ALL THINGS CONCERT. In the meantime, enjoy my look at the year 2012.
BALLET EXAMS WERE A HUGE SUCCESS WITH OUTSTANDING RESULTS BY ALL CANDIDATES
More pics and news to follow.

Sunday, February 5, 2012

ONE MORE SLEEP


ONE MORE SLEEP until our Dancing Year officially starts. I have updated my playlists, Miss Emma has her ruby glitter tap shoes and we are so excited about seeing you all again and meeting all of our new students. Record number of enrolments this year mean that we will be getting to know lots of fabulous new families.
It may hurt.....a little, ok a lot. I somehow don't think my supremacy on the XBox Just Dance is enough for the stamina needed to get these old bones a rockin. I will do my best. See a lot of you tomorrow and during the week. WHOO HOO
BEST YEAR EVER IS ABOUT TO BEGIN

Thursday, February 2, 2012

I AM SO EXCITED AND I JUST CAN'T HIDE IT

Not long now until the start of our 2012 dancing year and so many fantastic things are happening! Looking through our lists, we have so many incredible families who will make this year extra special.
I really love how Stepping Out seems to hit the Jackpot with the people who are attracted to our style of tuition and nurturing. It certainly makes for an amazing environment that strives for a balanced approach to our Dancing and a firm respect for the importance of education & family. There is no room for divas at Stepping Out. Every single student and family represents an important facet of our dance community and every step you take is a giant leap.
This year, above all others, awaits us, glittering with possibility. See you soon.

Sunday, January 29, 2012

BACK TO SCHOOL

I just wanted to pass on my thoughts, love and best wishes to all the Stepping Out kids as they ready themselves for the start of the 2012 School Year. Here at Slack-Smith HQ, we are a hive of activity getting four of our fabulous five ready for another year of LEARNING.
Our Archer starts Kindy tomorrow and we are all very excited but if truth be told, a little daunted. My little boy is entering the next phase and with that comes all matter of feelings.
I also know that Cleo Ferrari is today being dropped off at Loreto & Amelia Simpson ( aka Milsy) is making the trek to St Catherine's. Good Luck Girls and Good Luck Stepping Outers, to quote one of my favourite words of wisdom, "Education is not so much the filling of a pail, as the lighting of a fire."- William Yeats. May you all you be ignited this year and may your light shine bright.
And to our little Archful Dodger, these words "I am not afraid of storms for I am learning how to sail my ship." Set sail little Arch, we love you and we know you will travel well.

Friday, January 20, 2012

WHOAH HELLO 2012


We have had the most amazing Enrolment Days in all three of our areas this year. Forbes was HUGE! Orange was Huge! AND Dubbo was HUGE! To say that Miss Leesa, Emma & I are excited is the very least. We are ( see pic above)!! Yes, toyota leaping all over the place.
A big WELCOME BACK to existing students and a big WELCOME to all the fabulous people who have danced through our doors in the last three big days of Enrolment ( special thanks to our Admin, Amazeballs Gail for slaving over the paperwork in a 3 day marathon.)
We can't wait to show you how special our dance studio is! The people within our studios really contribute to the magic and it was so lovely to meet you or hear about your holiday adventures. Thank you for trusting us with their hearts,minds and bodies.
Let's get ready to DANCE!
And if you missed Enrolment Day, do not fear, we will still have a place for you. I got lots of panicked phone calls and messages today. It's ok, down from the ledge, people, we have a place for you too. Classes start back Monday, Feb 6th! Timetable and enrolment forms are on website. Fill out your form and come along to your first class during this week with a big smile and all will be forgiven.
Miss Rikki can be called on 041 336 1724 or you can email or post your details back. Private Lessons are filling fast so please make sure you book a time ASAP.

Friday, January 13, 2012

TIMETABLE FOR 2012 IS ON THE WEBSITE


Please go to our website, hit Link "timetables" and have a look at our 2012 Timetable

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

2012 Timetable

Hi All,
Emma and I have deliberated over the timetable long and hard and we are pleased to announce that it is now almost ready. It has been sent to our web wizard and along with 2012 Enrolment Form should be up live on the website any day now.
This will mean that you can have a think about classes, times, how Mum and Dad can be at swimming training, dance, tutoring, piano and still get dinner on the table all at the same time once school goes back. We have agonised over it and hope that it is as easy and convenient as it can be to as many families as possible. We do our best.
I will be making an announcement here and on our new FB page as soon as it becomes available. In the meantime, go to STEPPING OUT DANCE FACTORY DUBBO- hit like and start getting all the Stepping Out info on your newsfeed.

Tuesday, January 3, 2012

HAPPY NEW YEAR


OUR WISHES FOR A WONDERFUL 2012 and the sincere hope this year that "IF YOU GET THE CHANCE TO SIT IT OUT OR DANCE, THAT YOU DANCE."

We trust that you are all enjoying your holidays and hope to see you busting a move with us in 2012. Private tuition is available during the holidays. Our 2012 ENROLMENT DAY will be held on Friday, January, 20th between 4-7pm at our studio, Unit 7/74 Mountbatten Drive Dubbo.